Khaberni - Meteorological agencies have warned about the fierce storm "Byron" approaching the Middle East, after it caused significant damage in Greece and Cyprus.
The meteorological agencies confirmed that the effects of the storm will start within the next 24 hours, and could last for several days amid fears of a weather disaster in some regions.
It is expected that the remnants of the storm "Byron" will reach the Eastern Mediterranean region, including Jordan and other countries, starting from Wednesday (tomorrow), bringing with it heavy rain, strong winds, and the possibility of flooding.
The path of the storm.. The expected impact in Palestine, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon
The storm "Byron" initially hit Greece and Cyprus, causing devastating floods and infrastructure damage, and is now moving eastwards towards the Arab Mashriq region.
Jordan: The kingdom is gradually affected by the extent of a low-pressure area starting from Wednesday, leading to cold and partly to occasionally cloudy weather. The rain may be heavy at times, accompanied by thunder and hail, which could lead to flash floods in valleys and low-lying areas, including the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.
Palestine: Emergency and rescue authorities are preparing for the expected wave of rain on Wednesday, with warnings of sudden flooding and strong winds in several areas.
Syria and Lebanon: The storm is expected to affect large areas in the Eastern Mediterranean, including parts of Syria and Lebanon.
Concerned authorities have issued strict warnings about the risks of sudden flooding, especially in valley areas and desert regions.
According to forecasts, the effects of the storm will begin on Wednesday, reaching a peak on Thursday, with stormy and rainy conditions continuing until the end of the week. The warnings include heavy rains, strong winds, a sharp drop in temperatures, and the possibility of flooding and flash flooding in widespread areas.
The warnings in the Middle East are based on the clear devastation left by "Byron" in Greece and Cyprus in recent days. In Greece, the heavy rain caused floods that submerged the airbase of Combat Wing 112 in Elefsina, where water flooded sensitive aircraft hangars used for maintaining official aircraft, including those of the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, necessitating emergency measures to protect equipment.
The storm also brought to mind the scenario of 2023, when the storm "Daniel" flooded the Stefanovikio air base near Volos, where military helicopters were seen submerged in water, after water levels inside some of the hangars rose to about five meters, leading to investigations into the shortcomings in precautionary procedures.
In light of these precedents, an increase in readiness level is expected in the Middle East, along with clearing watercourses, and securing vital infrastructure, in anticipation of sudden flooding and potential disruptions in electricity and roads.
Weather experts confirmed that what was experienced in Greece and Cyprus could be repeated to varying degrees in the region, emphasizing that early preparation is the crucial factor in reducing human and material losses.
